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Brandon Gabriel-Kwelexwecten Launches Public Artwork that Tells First Nations Story

Brandon Gabriel
Brandon Gabriel
Raven and the First Sunrise |Image: Surrey Public Art
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By Erin Kirsh

Posted on July 10, 2018 | Updated August 06, 2019, 9:07am

Visit Guildford Library to experience the new mural by alumnus Brandon Gabriel-Kwelexwecten.

Through the City of Surrey's Public Art Program, alumnus Brandon Gabriel-Kwelexwecten (2006) has created a new mural at Guildford Library entitled Raven and the First Sunrise. The mural depicts the creation story of the Kwantlen people, wherein the shapeshifter, Raven, illuminates a darkened world. This creation story has many variations and belongs to many First Nations people, including the Musqueam, Katzie, Kwikwetlem, and more. Brandon Gabriel-Kwelexwecten shares this narrative in the bright and striking colours that perfectly befit a story of light-bringing.

The Surrey Public Art Program was established in 1998, and "aims to transform the city’s landscape and its residents who live, work, and play in it. Public art has the power to grab our attention, make us stop, think, ask questions, consider a new perspective, and spark conversations." Brandon Gabriel-Kwelexwecten's gorgeous mural brings vibrancy and vitality to the Guildford Library, be sure to stop by and visit.

About Brandon Gabriel-Kwelexwecten: